Arts and Culture

SOPHISTICATED ARTS SCENE MAKES COMMUNITY PROUD

Classical, folk and popular music, live theater, fine arts, American Indian traditions, festivals and workshops all combine to make Bemidji one of Minnesota’s most important centers of culture.

The Bemidji Symphony Orchestra performs over three seasons, featuring talented local musicians and visiting virtuosos. Bemidji State University choral and instrumental music students regularly perform in concerts and recitals and also produce a biannual opera.

Bemidji is famous for the whimsy and intrigue of its outdoor Sculpture Walk, and the new Watermark Art Center transforming a downtown building into multiple galleries. Bemidji State, with its own campus galleries and collections, is a partner.

Artists team up for the autumn Studio Cruise, which invites lovers and learners to witness the creative process. The Art in the Park festival each July attracts dozens of artists and craftspeople to the grassy lakefront behind the Carnegie Library.

These efforts, and more, are strengthened by loyal volunteers and patrons, as well as the Region 2 Arts Council, whose large service area encompasses the native nations of Leech Lake, Red Lake and White Earth.